Telescope Peak

The standard route starts at Mahogany Flat Campground on the Panamint crest and follows a maintained out-and-back trail for roughly 13–14 miles round trip with about 3,000 feet of gain from the campground. Expect steady climbing, a long ridge walk, and a final push up steep, rocky switchbacks to the summit. In winter, the road can close and you’ll start at the Charcoal Kilns, adding both mileage and elevation.

This hike is all about contrast: desert basins far below and alpine air up high. You’ll pass high-country meadows (with desert wildflowers in spring/early summer) and stands of ancient bristlecone pines before breaking out to wide-open ridgelines. From the top, you can look down on Badwater Basin and, on clear days, pick out Mount Whitney and the Sierra skyline to the west.

Sightings aren’t guaranteed, but hikers report birds and small mammals, and occasionally bighorn sheep in these elevations. Keep your distance and enjoy the view.

This is a strenuous, high-elevation hike. Plan on altitude effects, carry all your water (there are no sources), and bring layers—conditions swing from hot sun to cold, gusty summit winds. In winter and early spring, snow and ice can make the upper trail slick; traction devices are a smart call. No hiking permit is required, but you’ll need a park pass for parking.